Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Executive Secretary of the Association of Rwandan Female Journalists (ARFEM)

Background

The Association of Rwandan Female Journalists (ARFEM)is a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the professional development and empowerment of female journalists in Rwanda. The organization works to enhance gender equity in the media sector, support capacity building, and advocate for the rights and welfare of female journalists. ARFEMcollaborates with national, regional, and international partners to further these objectives.

Position Title

Executive Secretary (ES)

Reporting to

Board of Directors, ARFEM

Job Purpose

The Executive Secretary is the chief executive officer responsible for the day-to-day management and operations of ARFEM. The role ensures the effective implementation of the organization’s strategic goals, policies, and programs, providing leadership to the staff and coordinating with stakeholders to achieve the Association’s mission and vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Planning
• Develop and execute strategic plans in line with ARFEM’s mission and objectives.
• Work closely with the Board of Directors to set long-term goals and implement policies.
• Monitor industry trends and ensure ARFEM remains responsive to the needs of female journalists.
• Operational Management
• Oversee the daily management of ARFEM’s programs, initiatives, and projects.
• Supervise staff, providing leadership, mentoring, and performance evaluations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and best practices.
• Financial Management
• Manage the financial resources of the Association, including budgeting, financial planning, and ensuring proper financial reporting.
• Oversee fundraising efforts, including grant writing, partnerships, and donor relations.
• Ensure financial sustainability by exploring diverse revenue streams.
• Advocacy and Representation
• Represent ARFEM in national, regional, and international forums, advocating for the rights and interests of female journalists.
• Build partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, media organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Lead advocacy efforts on key gender and media issues, including press freedom, gender equity, and the protection of female journalists.
• Communication and Public Relations
• Serve as the spokesperson for ARFEM, ensuring clear and consistent communication with members, partners, and the media.
• Develop and implement communication strategies to promote ARFEM’s work and raise public awareness of the challenges facing female journalists.
• Membership Engagement
• Strengthen the ARFEM membership base by developing programs and services that meet members’ needs.
• Coordinate training, mentorship, and capacity-building initiatives for female journalists.
• Maintain effective communication with members and ensure their active participation in the Association’s activities.
• Monitoring and Evaluation
• Ensure that all ARFEM programs and projects are properly monitored, evaluated, and aligned with organizational goals.
• Provide regular reports to the Board on the progress and impact of ARFEM’s initiatives.
• Governance Support
• Serve as a liaison between the Board of Directors and ARFEM staff, ensuring effective communication and coordination.
• Prepare reports, meeting agendas, and other documentation for Board meetings.
• Ensure compliance with the legal and regulatory frameworks governing ARFEM’s operations.

Key Qualifications and Competencies

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Media Studies, Development Studies, Public Relations, or a related field. A Master’s degree is an added advantage.
• Experience
• At least 5 years of professional experience in media management, journalism, or related fields, with at least 2 years in a leadership position.
• Proven experience in organizational management, strategic planning, and program implementation.
• Experience working with NGOs, media organizations, or advocacy groups is desirable.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership, managerial, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and public speaking abilities.
• Financial management and resource mobilization skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of media industry trends and gender issues in Rwanda and globally.

Contract Duration

This is a full-time position with an initial contract of two years, renewable based on performance and availability of funding.

Workstation

The Executive Secretary will be based at ARFEM’s headquarters in Kigali, Rwanda, with occasional travel within and outside the country as required.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their CV, cover letter, and three professional references by October 15th, 2024 to [email protected]

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Management